On Sunday, September 8, Cardinal Timothy Dolan will celebrate the invaluable contributions of grandparents and the elderly to our families and communities at the 10:15 a.m. Mass.

Organized by the Archdiocese of New York’s Office of Family Life, this annual Mass aims to recognize the wisdom, love, and guidance that older generations provide to their families and society.

Grandparents and elderly individuals are particularly encouraged to attend this celebratory Mass. The Archdiocese is offering reserved seating for these honored guests. 

The event is not limited to the family members of grandparents (and great-grandparents). All members of the community are welcome to join in this special celebration. The Mass reflects a growing recognition of the importance of intergenerational connections and the unique perspectives that older adults bring to our communities.

Pope Francis established the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly in 2021. While the rest of the world celebrates the occasion on the fourth Sunday of July to coincide with the feasts of Saints Joachim and Anne (the traditional parents of Mary and grandparents of Jesus), the Church in the United States observes it on the first Sunday after Labor Day to encourage greater participation.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to pray with Cardinal Dolan and the rest of our Catholic community as we take time to celebrate the elderly and grandparents with our families and communities,” Ted Musco, director of the Office of Family Life, told The Good Newsroom by email.

For those interested in attending or for more information about the event, contact the Office of Family Life at FLEvents@archny.org. The deadline to register is September 1.